HiJackThis+ 3.4.17: A Dangerous Imitation of a Discontinued Tool

HiJackThis+ 3.4.17 is not a legitimate or safe application. Despite its name, it is not the original HijackThis tool, nor is it developed or supported by any reputable cybersecurity company. Instead, it appears to be a repurposed or malicious version distributed through third-party download sites, often bundled with:

• Adware
• Browser hijackers
• Fake virus scanners
• Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)

The original HijackThis was a diagnostic tool used to generate logs of running processes, startup entries, browser settings, and registry modifications — helping experts identify possible signs of malware. However, it did not remove threats itself, and required expert interpretation.

⚠️ Never use HiJackThis+ 3.4.17 — it may install malware instead of removing it.

What Was the Original HijackThis?

HijackThis (by Merijn Bellekom) was a free utility released in the early 2000s to help users and support technicians:

• Generate detailed system logs
• Detect suspicious startup entries
• Identify browser hijackers
• Analyze running processes

It was widely used in forums like BleepingComputer and Geekstogo, where users would post logs for experts to analyze.

However, HijackThis had major limitations:

• ❌ No real-time protection
• ❌ Did not remove malware
• ❌ Showed both safe and unsafe entries — leading to accidental deletions
• ❌ Outdated for modern Windows systems (10/11)
• ❌ Discontinued in 2008 after Trend Micro acquired it

Why “HiJackThis+ 3.4.17” Is Risky

Any tool using the name “HiJackThis+” today is not the original and likely falls into one of these categories:

1. Fake Antivirus (Scareware)

• Displays fake infection alerts
• Pressures you to buy a “full version”
• May lock your browser or desktop

2. Malware in Disguise

• Installs spyware, adware, or trojans
• Modifies browser settings (e.g., homepage hijack)
• Adds unwanted startup programs

3. Outdated & Unsafe

• Uses old code with unpatched vulnerabilities
• May not work on Windows 10/11
• Can crash or corrupt system settings

Red Flags of Fake HijackThis Tools

These are classic signs of malware.

Safe & Modern Alternatives to HijackThis

Instead of using outdated or fake tools, use trusted, up-to-date software to diagnose and remove malware:

✅ For System Analysis & Cleanup

✅ For Expert Log Analysis

• Post logs on trusted forums:
  • BleepingComputer.com
  • Geekstogo.com
• Use FRST (Farbar Recovery Scan Tool) — the modern successor to HijackThis

🔐 FRST generates logs in the same format but is actively maintained and safe.

How to Remove HiJackThis+ 3.4.17 (If Installed)

If you’ve installed this app, follow these steps:

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode

• Restart → Hold Shift → Troubleshoot → Advanced → Startup Settings → Enable Safe Mode

Step 2: End Suspicious Processes

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager
• Look for unknown processes (e.g., hijackplus.exe, scanner34.exe)
• End Task

Step 3: Uninstall via Control Panel

• Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps
• Find “HiJackThis+”, “System Scanner”, or similar
• Uninstall it

Step 4: Run a Real Antivirus Scan

Use:

• Malwarebytes (free)
• AdwCleaner
• HitmanPro

Step 5: Reset Your Browser

• Clear cache, extensions, and settings
• Set default search engine and homepage

Final Verdict: Avoid HiJackThis+ 3.4.17

HiJackThis+ 3.4.17 is not a safe or legitimate tool — it’s a dangerous imitation of a discontinued utility. The original HijackThis was useful in its time, but modern malware is far more sophisticated, and today’s threats require updated, real-time protection.

🔐 Never use unknown registry or “scanner” tools from third-party sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is HijackThis safe to use?
A: The original was safe but outdated. “HiJackThis+” is not safe.

Q: Can HijackThis remove viruses?
A: No — it only generates logs. Removal must be done manually or with real antivirus.

Q: What replaced HijackThis?
A: FRST (Farbar Recovery Scan Tool) is the trusted modern replacement.

Q: How do I know if my browser is hijacked?
A: Signs include:

• Changed homepage or search engine
• Redirects to unknown sites
• Pop-up ads even when browsing

Use AdwCleaner to fix it.

Conclusion

HiJackThis+ 3.4.17 is not a solution — it’s a threat. Real security comes from trusted, updated tools like Malwarebytes, AdwCleaner, and FRST — not repackaged legacy software.

🛡️ Protect your PC with legitimate software and avoid anything that sounds like “HijackThis Pro” or “+”.
Your system’s safety depends on knowledge, not fear.

🔗 Download safe tools from official sources only:

• https://www.malwarebytes.com
• https://www.adwcleaner.com
• https://www.farbar.com (FRST)